4 Practical Tips to Manage Yellow and Strong-Smelling Urine in Men

Changes in urine color and odor are often overlooked, but they can be an important indicator of a man’s health. Yellow urine with a strong odor may result from dehydration, dietary habits, medications, or underlying health conditions. While occasional changes are usually harmless, persistent or severe alterations should not be ignored. Fortunately, with some practical adjustments, most cases can be managed effectively. Here are four key strategies men can use to improve urinary health.

Stay Hydrated

One of the most common causes of dark yellow and strong-smelling urine is insufficient water intake. When the body is dehydrated, urine becomes concentrated, making both the color and odor more noticeable.

Men should aim for about 1,500–2,000 ml of water daily, ideally distributed throughout the day rather than consumed all at once.

Proper hydration helps flush out metabolic waste, dilutes compounds that cause odor, and supports kidney and urinary tract function.

Simple habits like carrying a reusable water bottle or setting reminders to drink water can make a big difference.

Adjust Your Diet

Diet plays a significant role in urine characteristics. Certain foods and nutrients can affect both color and smell.

Foods rich in carotene, such as carrots, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes, can turn urine darker yellow.

Strongly flavored foods, including garlic, onions, and asparagus, may intensify urine odor temporarily.

A balanced diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods—like apples, oranges, cucumbers, and leafy greens—can support overall urinary health.

Reducing excessive consumption of artificial coloring or processed foods may also help prevent strong odors.

Monitor Medication Effects

Certain medications or supplements can alter urine color and odor.

Vitamin B supplements, some antibiotics, and medications like nitrofurantoin are known to cause temporary changes in urine.

If you notice persistent changes while on medication, consult your physician. Adjusting dosage or switching medications may be possible under medical supervision.

Even if medications cannot be stopped, close monitoring of urine changes is important to rule out other underlying causes.

Treat Underlying Health Conditions Promptly

Persistent yellow or foul-smelling urine may indicate an underlying health issue.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Bacterial growth in the urinary tract produces byproducts that alter urine color and odor. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics such as levofloxacin, amoxicillin, or cefixime. For chronic infections, herbal remedies like the Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill can help reduce inflammation and support urinary tract health.

Liver and gallbladder diseases: Conditions such as hepatitis or cholecystitis can increase bilirubin levels in urine, making it darker and sometimes more pungent. Treatment involves disease-specific medications, including liver-protective or bile-promoting drugs.

Kidney issues or metabolic disorders: These conditions may also cause changes in urine color and odor. Early detection through testing and medical evaluation is crucial for preventing long-term complications.

Schedule Regular Checkups

Routine medical checkups, including urinalysis and blood tests, help detect potential health problems early. If abnormal urine color or odor persists for more than a few days, it is important to consult a urologist or andrology specialist. Early evaluation can help identify the cause—whether it’s a simple lifestyle factor or a more serious condition—and guide appropriate treatment.

Final Note

Yellow and strong-smelling urine in men should not be ignored. While improving hydration and diet can resolve most minor cases, persistent symptoms may signal infections, liver or kidney issues, or other underlying conditions. By drinking sufficient water, maintaining a balanced diet, using medications responsibly, addressing health conditions promptly, and undergoing regular health checkups, men can effectively protect their urinary system and overall health.

Persistent or worsening symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation, as timely intervention can prevent complications and promote long-term well-being.